Well, after three days of almost constant work, I am almost finally caught up with my grading and lesson planning. I let the homework grading slide in one of my courses and it got to the point where I didn't even want to contemplate the mound of homework awaiting me. But now, I'm nearly caught up, and I have great plans for being more on top of it.
I find that I am often choosing between housework and work-work. Angie requires a great amount of attention most of the time and seldom lets me get stuff done while she's awake. On rare occasions, she can occupy herself without me being right next to her, but mostly she likes me to be present. That means that if I leave the room to pee or wash a load of laundry, she's right on my heels, protesting my departure. And she's starting to get heavy, so carrying her around isn't a great option anymore. But I hate hearing her cry. So, during her naptimes and nighttime sleep, I have to juggle everything. . .do I grade papers, write a lecture, clean the kitchen or fold laundry? When am I going to dust the bedroom? Should I change the sheets today or wait for some other time? I've got to file those bills, but I can't seem to locate them on my cluttered desk anymore.
Oy vey, as my Jewish friends say!
5 comments:
This is a tough one, and I have some tough advice. You can't take care of all your responsibilities while she's sleeping. She doesn't sleep enough hours for that, and presumably, you need sleep as well. Here's the hard part: If she isn't in pain, there is nothing wrong with letting her cry while you do something else. Start with a few minutes; go ahead and start the laundry, then come back. You've left her in a safe place and no matter how much she cries, nothing bad will happen. You'll be right back. Go ahead. It's okay.
I agree with Jennie. It is important for children to know that, when you leave, you always come back. They will have a sense of security from that knowledge. You will not be doing her any great favors by constantly being available to her. Yes, by all means, be there for her. But, you should be able to do other things as well.
I do let her cry sometimes; you're right, there aren't enough "sleeping hours"; but I always feel bad when I do it.
Yes, it's hard, but after some practice, she won't mind so much. You'll be doing BOTH of you a favor!
It's hard to remember that your baby is growing up. Her cries don't always indicate a need these days, sometimes it's just a want. If she's crying just because she wants you nearby and you can't be, that's okay. You are not being a bad mommy . . . you are not depriving her of a need. You'll only be gone a minute or two. When you get back, you can give her a big hug and tell her you missed her!
I love you!
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